Rosa Lee Griffin, a beacon of love and gentle strength, passed away peacefully at her home in Auburn, Alabama, on Friday, November 15, 2024. At the age of 84, she left this world surrounded by the warmth of her family, leaving behind a legacy of compassion and dedication that will be cherished by all who knew her.

Born in Portsmouth, Virginia, on June 17, 1940, Rosa Lee Mayo was the cherished daughter of the late Mr. James Arthur and Vivian Mae Pierce Mayo, Sr. Her early years in Virginia laid the foundation for a life characterized by love, family, and service to others. After graduating from high school in 1958, Rosa's heart led her to Thaddeus Griffin, the love of her life. Their union was blessed with four sons: Keith, Chris, Kenneth, and Russell. Rosa's nurturing spirit didn't stop with her own children; she lovingly adopted her nephew, John Mayo, and extended her motherly embrace to include her special nephew, Turnell Mayo, and daughters Bernadette and Kim Issac.

Rosa's journey took her to Newburgh, New York, where she became a cherished member of the community and a devoted parishioner of St. Mary’s Church. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, guiding her actions and inspiring her service. Rosa's academic pursuits culminated in a bachelor's degree in social work, a field where she found her calling. Her professional life was a reflection of her innate desire to support and uplift those around her. As a child and family case worker for the Family Focus Adoption Agency, Rosa touched the lives of countless individuals with her thoughtfulness and unwavering commitment to their well-being.

Preceding her in death was: her beloved husband, Thaddeus; two sons, Kenneth Griffin and Keith Griffin; grandparents, Sampson and Gladys Riddick Pierce; two brothers, James Mayo and Ronald Mayo.

She leaves to cherish her precious memory: six children, Chris (Nadine) Griffin, Russell Griffin, John Griffin, Turnell Mayo, Bernadette Issac and Kim Issac; seventeen grandchildren; twenty-five great-grandchildren; one great-great grandchild; one brother, Charles (Jacqueline) Pierce; one sister, Barbara Mayo; two daughters-in-law, Laurie Griffin and Laurie Blecker; one sister-in-law, Gwen Mayo; beloved friend, Jack Brennan; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and many other dear friends.

A celebration of Rosa’s life will take place at Harris Funeral Home on Wednesday, November 20, 2024, at 4:00 p.m. A reception will follow at the Griffin residence. Rosa will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband, Thaddeus, at a Veterans Cemetery in New York.